The Best Way to Give a Foot Massage
posted: Aug. 04, 2015.
A foot massage can be a great way to help someone you know relax after a long day or to relieve any lingering foot pain or discomfort that might be present. Here’s a step by step guide that will help you provide the therapeutic benefits of a great foot massage.
Preliminary
First soak the feet in warm water for about 10 minutes and dry with a warm towel. Then have the person receiving the massage lie back and make sure the feet are supported. You can then choose oil or lotion for the massage and apply it to the first foot you’ll be working with. Once the first foot is complete you can repeat the steps for the other.
Stretching
Stretch the foot up and down and in circles, making sure to support the heel with one hand while the other manipulates the foot at the ankle. Squeeze the foot with both hands, one on each side, and work your way up to the ankle and back. Now gently twist the foot in opposite directions, again working up to the ankle and back down
Stroking
Use fingers of both hands to stroke the top of the foot while your thumbs stroke the bottom – try to find the areas between bones and tendons and work those relatively firmly.
Mind the Toes
Use your thumb and index finger to massage each toe from bottom to top then use them to make a circle then pull gently on each toe. Intersperse your fingers between the toes and move them back and forth.
The Bottom
Use your thumbs to make circular motions on the bottom of the foot, then stroke side to side and up and down. Use as much pressure as is comfortable for the one being massaged.
There are many techniques for a good foot massage that can vary based on therapeutic need or personal intimacy. Finding the right one for you and the person you are massaging will be part of the challenge. That said, the above directions should give you a firm foundation on which to begin. If you have any foot issues a good massage can’t solve, you should consult an expert like Sheldon H. Nadal D.P.M. Contact his office today.